A particle having a mass of 0.195g carries a charge of -2.50*10^-8 C. The partic

Question

A particle having a mass of 0.195g carries a charge of -2.50*10^-8 C. The particle is given an initial horizontal northward velocity of 4.00*10^4 m/s. What are the magnitude and direction of the minimum magnetic field that will balance the earth's gravitational pull on the particle?

I'm most interested in how you determine the direction of the magnetic field.

how can the velocity be be horizontal and northward? doesn't horizontal typically mean east and west?

would the force be upwards or downwards, and does the charge being negative affect this in any way?

you don't really have the answer the question itself just give me a very detailed explanation as to how you would figure out w/ the right hand rule that the magnetic field direction is EAST and why? thank you!

Explanation / Answer

The horizontal and North just mean the same thing as if you were driving on a higway in the North direction. You are traveling horizontally and to the North. Don't confuse North with Upward.

Now, when you apply the right hand rule, your thumb will point South along the highway (since the charge is negative). The force will have to point upward toward the sky to balance the weight pulling down, so your palm faces upward. That leaves your fingers pointing eastward when you maneuver your hand around.

Basically point the thumb of your right hand toward you with your palm facing up. Your fingers will be pointing to the right which represents East.

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